Apparatus for aerial tool configurations

ABSTRACT

A field-configurable apparatus for different aerial applications is provided. The field-configurable apparatus attaches to an aerial boom on a mobile carrier. The apparatus can perform rapid semi-precise cutting of vegetation. Additionally, the apparatus can perform more precise trimming of one or more areas (e.g., limbs) and optionally use a limb clamp to prevent cut limbs/vegetation from arbitrarily falling on objects below the cutting area. Still further, the apparatus can have a grapple or similar device attached to the end of the boom for use in relocating debris or for loading debris. Other industrial applications are also possible (e.g., commercial water blasting, deicing of planes, etc.). In each configuration, the apparatus comprises one or more rotatable or pivoting couplings to allow for rotation about one or more axis and therefore allow precise manipulation of an aerial tool assembly from an operator in the vehicle or on the ground.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This disclosure is a continuation-in-part of, and claims priority topending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/070,293, entitled “Apparatusfor Tree Trimming and Tree Maintenance” filed 15 Mar. 2016 by Steven J.Terrell which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety forall available purposes. This disclosure is also related to U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 13/441,377 entitled “Apparatus for General TreeTrimming or Precision Tree Trimming” filed 6 Apr. 2012 by Steven J.Terrell which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety forall available purposes. This disclosure is also related to U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 13/441,453 entitled “Apparatus for General TreeTrimming or Precision Tree Trimming Having an Aerial Tank” by Steven J.Terrell filed on 6 Apr. 2012 which is also incorporated by reference inits entirety. This disclosure also relates to U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 61/482,807 filed 5 May 2011 to which priority is claimedand which is also incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF INVENTION

This disclosure pertains to a reconfigurable extendable boom mountedaerial apparatus that allows for the quick connect/disconnect of one ormore aerial tool configurations for trimming trees, vegetation, materialhandling of cut debris, chemical spraying, water blasting, equipmentdecontamination, de-icing, demolition, and more particularly to anapparatus configurable, possibly in the field, for either ground basedsemi-precise aerial trimming of trees, vegetation, and material handlingof cut debris, chemical spraying, water blasting, equipmentdecontamination, de-icing, demolition, or for precision ground basedaerial applications.

BACKGROUND

Electrical power lines often run through heavily wooded areas, either inneighborhoods or in rural areas. Normally a path, or right of way, iscut through such wooded areas to make way for the power lines, buteventually the trees or other vegetation will encroach upon this pathand it will need to be trimmed back. For example, tree limbs, over time,may grow over the power lines, presenting the risk of damaging the linesshould the limbs fall or make contact with the lines during a storm.Typically, such trimming is required every five years or so, althoughthis time period may be shorter or longer in a given area. Because powerlines often span long distances, such as hundreds of miles, a trimmingoperation may be a complex and time intensive endeavor for whichefficiency is a consideration. Two different types of approaches havebeen used in the prior art. Typically, to trim around transmission lines(which go cross country) a rough cutting and partially automatedmechanism has been used. Alternatively, in residential/commercial areasserviced by electrical distribution lines a manual approach has beenutilized.

In one common manual approach, a mobile unit such as an “insulatedbucket truck” is utilized. The bucket truck has an insulated bucket orbasket connected to an insulated boom (crane like structure), which isin turn connected to the chassis of the truck. The bucket (or “basket”as it is sometimes known) contains room for a worker and associated treetrimming equipment, such as a hand operated chainsaw or hydraulic polesaw. Once in the bucket, the worker may be lifted up to an appropriateheight and location to trim the trees. Thus, the worker can manually cuttree limbs to combat encroachment of the trees toward the power lines.This approach, however, is not optimal for several reasons. The manualapproach is slow, involves potential risk of injury to the worker andassociated potential liability, and might allow the cut refuse to fallfreely and dangerously to the ground. Alternatively, the cut refuse maybe manually lowered with a rope to the ground below, but this is slowand cumbersome.

Improvements over the bucket technique have been introduced in the priorart, such as that described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,501,257 (the '257patent), which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. The '257patent describes a boom with a mountable assembly on the end instead ofa bucket. The assembly contains jaws for clamping a tree limb to be cutand a saw arm for cutting the grasped limb. The assembly can spin thesaw arm around the axis formed by the boom to allow the jaws to bebrought into alignment with a tree limb and then rotate the saw arm in acircular fashion to cut the clamped limb. After cutting, the saw blademay be retracted and, in theory, the cut tree limb will be held in placeby the jaws, which will then allow the operator to place the cut limb onthe ground for disposal.

Another prior art practice relating to tree clearance around electricallines involves the trimming of tree limbs and administration ofherbicides or wound dressing to impede future tree growth. Herbicidesadministered using the bucket technique described above suffer fromconcerns about the health and safety of the aerial worker falling orcoming into contact with dangerous herbicides or inadvertent electricshock when a liquid comes in contact with a power line. An automateddistribution of herbicides from an apparatus at the end of a boomrepresents an improvement over the bucket technique and is described inU.S. Pat. No. 6,990,770 which is hereby incorporated by referenceherein.

As explained above, certain prior art techniques have been used toprovide an efficient yet somewhat non-precise solution to cutting oftree limbs and other foliage around rights of way. In particular, priorart approaches are limited with respect to a comprehensive axialrotation of an aerial tool assembly. Additionally, prior art solutionsare usually limited in the amount of reconfiguration available in thefield for the entire tool apparatus attached to the distal end of theaerial boom. Therefore, it would be desirable to provide a more preciseand possibly field configurable apparatus for trimming foliage aroundpower lines and other areas where automated, yet precise trimming may bedesired. Additional applications (e.g., other than tree-trimming) arealso possible. In general, a solution is needed for performing automatedaerial tasks from a ground based vehicle in a more field-configurablemanner. This disclosure presents several embodiments of such a solution.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a truck with a boom, to which may be connected anapparatus for performing aerial tasks including trimming of trees andother vegetation, according to one or more disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 2 illustrates an alternative transport vehicle for a boom andaerial tool assembly, according to one or more disclosed embodiments.

FIGS. 3A-D illustrate, in different perspective views, a possibleconfiguration of an aerial tool assembly which may be connected, usuallythrough a boom actuator and attachment assembly, to a boom of a groundbased vehicle, according to one or more disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 4 illustrates an exploded view of an aerial tool assembly, saw bararm, and axial rotations connections, according to one or more disclosedembodiments.

FIG. 5 illustrates an exploded view of a boom attachment mechanism,actuator arm and aerial tool assembly mounting bracket, according to oneor more disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 6 illustrates an exploded view of elements from FIGS. 4 and 5 ,according to one or more disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 7 illustrates another perspective view of boom attachmentmechanism, aerial tool assembly mounting bracket, axial rotator, andactuator arm (e.g., an actuator assembly), according to one or moredisclosed embodiments.

FIGS. 8A-C illustrate, in different perspective views, a boom actuatorand attachment assembly and a connected aerial tool assembly in onepossible configuration, according to one or more disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 9 illustrates a boom attachable tank and tank box, according to oneor more disclosed embodiments.

FIGS. 10A-B illustrate different perspective views of a substantiallycomplete boom assembly, according to one or more disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 11 illustrates the assembly of FIGS. 10A-B oriented on a transportvehicle, according to one or more disclosed embodiments.

FIGS. 12A-C illustrate different perspective views of a boom assemblywith a trunk clamp and chainsaw style saw bar arm, according to one ormore disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 13 illustrates hydraulic hose connections for quick connectinghydraulically powered accessories to an aerial tool assembly, accordingto one or more disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 14 illustrates a more detailed view of an axial swivel withhydraulic ports to supply hydraulic fluid conductivity through theswivel, according to one or more disclosed embodiments.

FIGS. 15A-C illustrate different views of a truck with boom attachmentmechanism, actuator arm, rotator and an attachable and detachable aerialtool configuration comprising a plurality of cutting blades, accordingto one or more disclosed embodiments.

FIGS. 16A-C illustrate different views of an unmanned remote controlledvehicle and boom assembly having an attachable and detachable aerialtool configuration comprising a single circular saw blade, according toone or more disclosed embodiments.

FIGS. 17A-C illustrates different views of an attachable and detachableaerial tool configuration comprising a demolition shear and grapple thatmay be attached to a mobile carrier with boom assembly, according to oneor more disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 18 illustrates a truck and boom assembly with an attachable anddetachable aerial tool configuration comprising a water/chemicalblasting spray head, according to one or more disclosed embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Disclosed herein is an apparatus preferably coupled to an aerial boom ona truck or any other mobile carrier chassis that allows for thereconfiguration and application of various attachable and detachableaerial tool configured boom assemblies to perform a desired task. Theapparatus may be capable of being configured into a plurality ofconfigurations in the field via “quick connect/disconnect” sealablecouplings. The quick connect/disconnect sealable couplings may be used,in some embodiments, for attaching tools powered by hydraulic,pneumatic, or water/chemical hoses attached to ports of differentlydesigned swivels, rotators, or actuators.

In some configurations, the apparatus may be capable of performing rapidsemi-precise cutting of vegetation. In an alternate use, mode, orconfiguration, the apparatus may be capable of performing precision treetrimming of one or more limbs. The apparatus may also optionally utilizea limb clamp or grapple mechanism with a plurality of opposing clampingarms. These additional clamping mechanisms may be used, for example, tohold any limb(s) being cut thereby preventing the cut limbs frominadvertently falling on objects directly beneath the work area.Additionally, clamping mechanisms may allow the operator to place thelimbs on the ground or in a chipper, grinder, or dump body, fordisposal.

Another possible configuration of the disclosed apparatus may allow forsimultaneous or independent trimming and chemically treating trees orother vegetation. The working end of the boom (e.g., distal or far endwith respect to the mobile carrier) may also be configured into agrapple mechanism with a plurality of opposing clamping arms and/or toinclude a chain saw assembly for use in large tree limb, trunk removaland storm debris clean up. The grapple and/or chain saw assemblyconfiguration may utilize quick connect/disconnect sealable hydrauliccouplings for connecting and disconnecting from the boom tip aerial toolattachment mechanism.

In prior art solutions, the grapple head jaws are typically orientedtoward the ground. As a result of this orientation, the materialhandling of debris and removal has typically been utilized with a shortlimited boom reach. For example, using a short limited boom reach topick up debris located on the ground or in piles and loaded in dumptrucks, large roll off boxes or trailers. In contrast to typical priorart grapple equipment for debris removal, the grapple and/or chain sawassembly of the disclosed apparatus may be extendable upwards andarticulated to achieve different solutions. In some embodiments, thetool assembly may be positioned at greater heights than prior artsolutions, in part, by utilizing the aerial boom and aerial toolactuators to align the aerial tool configuration for various clampingand cutting applications.

In yet another configuration, an attachable and detachable aerial sawbar with a plurality of blades and an independent engine or electricrechargeable battery driven power pack maybe utilized when cuttingaccess is limited. This aerial tool configuration may allow for thedisclosed aerial tool to be utilized on various carriers. Specifically,envisioned is an ability to utilize the aerial saw bar from carrierswith limited hydraulic flow and pressure capacities. By distributing thepower sources available to a tool assembly, cost savings may berealized, in part, by reducing impact caused by costly hydraulicredesign modifications. Further, an aerial saw bar configuration mayallow modification of some existing tree trimmer bucket trucks currentlyin use to have enhanced capability. For example, by disconnecting abucket of a bucket truck and attaching the aerial tool configurationwith independent power pack a new and useful configuration may berealized for reduced cost.

In still other applications, the aerial boom apparatus may be connectedto the mobile carrier with a boom tip (e.g., distal end) configured forreceiving, operating, supporting, attaching, and detaching one or moreaerial mechanical tool configurations (e.g., an aerial tool assembly asdiscussed herein). As further described below, the disclosed aerial toolapparatus may be configured to perform specific work tasks at heightsranging from the proximity of ground level (e.g., several feet) to anexcess of 125 feet in the air. Height limits may depend on the aerialboom extension capability and gross vehicle supporting weight andstability of the mobile carrier. Thus, weight parameters with regard toboom specifications and aerial tool configurations may need to beconsidered for each application.

To increase field configurability, the disclosed apparatus may becapable of being configured into a plurality of configurations in thefield via “quick connect” type couplings. The quick connect typecouplings may be used, in some embodiments, for attaching tools and forattaching hydraulic hoses to ports of specially designed load bearingswivels.

In some configurations, the apparatus is capable of performing rapidsemi-precise cutting of vegetation. In an alternate use mode orconfiguration, the apparatus is capable of performing precision trimmingof one or more limbs and optionally using a clamping mechanism toprevent cut limbs/vegetation from inadvertently falling on objectsdirectly beneath the cutting area. The distal end of the boom may alsobe configured into a grapple type tool (e.g., a grapple head assembly)for use in relocating debris into a removal apparatus such as a dumptruck, trailer, tub grinder or chipper. The grapple head assembly mayutilize quick connect/disconnect style hydraulic connection couplingsfor connecting to the boom actuator and attachment mechanism. Incontrast to prior art debris removal grapple equipment, the grapple headassembly may be extendable upwards utilizing the aerial boom.

While the present disclosure is described with examples in the contextof trimming trees around electrical lines, there are many other areaswhich may also benefit from embodiments of an aerial tool apparatus asdisclosed herein. In a first use case, the aerial tool apparatus may beconfigured as a precise and automated tree trimming apparatus asdisclosed. For example, sometimes heavy foliage develops as a canopyover road-ways and in residential areas possibly overhanging structures.An apparatus from some embodiments disclosed herein may be useful invegetation maintenance that may be desired in those areas. Additionally,several types of industries may require vegetation maintenance invarying degrees of precision, such as, residential homes,municipalities, rail roads, tree growers, pipeline companies to maintainrights of way, ski lifts, parks and recreation, etc. Therefore, thedisclosed embodiments are not intended to be limited to maintenance offoliage around electrical lines but will have other uses as will beapparent to those of ordinary skill in the art given the benefits ofthis disclosure. Furthermore, while the present disclosure is describedin the context of tree trimming, there are other various industryapplications that may benefit from these aerial tool configurationembodiments. Also, throughout this disclosure like elements from earlierembodiments are labeled with the same element numbers and are not alwaysfurther discussed in every embodiment.

Referring now to FIG. 1 , truck 100 is shown according to one disclosedembodiment. Truck 100 comprises a boom 130 and an aerial tool apparatus120 connected to a far end (i.e., distal end) of boom 130 with near end(i.e., proximate end) of boom 130 connected to truck 100. Aerial toolapparatus 120 comprises multiple section, connection points, andactuators to allow aerial tool apparatus 120 to be configured into avariety of different operational modes depending on a cutting task.Truck 100 illustrates a conventional vehicle suitable for managing theterrain in the area of interest for maintenance of vegetation. Althoughshown as a truck 100, any type of vehicle, carrier, or trailer suitableto reach the area of interest could be used (e.g., work-boat, railcar,truck carrier, off-road, rubber tire carrier, crawler, truck equippedwith hi-rails, telehandler, track carrier, crane, etc.). The transportvehicle, such as truck 100, may also take into account operatingcharacteristics of the boom and aerial tool apparatus 120 (e.g.,rollover prevention, stress loading, operator safety and visibility,boom overload sensing capability, aerial boom camera, vehicle levelsensing, vehicle GPS logging, mapping and software capabilities,unmanned remote control operated vehicle, etc.). Specific capabilitiesfor each of boom 130 and aerial tool apparatus 120 will be described inmore detail below.

Boom 130 may be constructed from fiberglass, steel, a combinationthereof, or other suitable material. Construction of boom 130 may takeinto account work areas in proximity to electrical power lines andtherefore it is preferable for the boom to be insulated completely orhave at least one section (typically more than one) that acts as aninsulator to electrical current. Additionally, boom 130 may be made upof one or more sections (e.g., upper boom 131 and lower boom 133) forextension and/or articulation. For example, boom 130 could be atelescoping boom with one or more movable sections, a multi-sectionover-center knuckle boom, a non-over center knuckle boom, or acombination knuckle and telescoping boom. Each embodiment of boom 130 asa knuckle boom may comprise one or more knuckle joints 132. In someembodiments, a combination of telescoping sections and knuckle joints132 may be utilized. When designing embodiments of boom 130, weightcapacity of boom 130 may also be considered (e.g., for support of anaerial tool assembly and attachments) as well as accounting for dutycycles of boom 130 itself. Non-conductive hydraulic and chemical supplylines may comprise hoses or hard lines or any combination thereof andmay be internal, external or a combination of both to boom 130 andaerial tool apparatus 120. In one embodiment, the hydraulic hoses areinternal to the boom structure to avoid entanglement when boom 130 ismaneuvered around and through vegetation and other objects in the workarea. In one embodiment, up to thirteen (13) hoses each capable of 3000pounds per square inch (PSI) pressure could be utilized. When hoses areinternal or external to a telescoping embodiment of boom 130, hoses maybe able to travel while boom 130 actuates and extends or retracts, asthe boom actuates, extends or retracts the hoses are spooled onto or offof a hose type real or spooling mechanism. A pass through swivel mayallow for ported hydraulic fluid conductivity through areas of axialrotation.

In a multi-section boom, configured as either a telescoping embodimentwith one or more movable sections (e.g., a knuckle joint embodiment or acombination of telescoping and knuckle joint embodiment), it may bedesirable for each section to be capable of manipulation independentlyof other sections. As shown in FIG. 1 , boom 130 is attached to atransport vehicle, such as truck 100, at a fixed pedestal 140 androtatable around an axis perpendicular to the chassis of the transportvehicle. Operator platform 150 typically rotates with boom 130 to allowfor easier operator control. Also, as explained in more detail later,Boom 130 may also have a liquid supply tank mounted above all or amajority of the articulation points of the boom to minimize or eliminateneed for supply hoses to travel internal to the boom's structure. FIG. 1also shows an operator 160 and remote control 161, described in moredetail below. Remote control 161 may allow an operator 160 to controlboom 130 and aerial tool apparatus 120 from a location other than inoperator platform 150. In another configuration, the operator platform150 is not provided and the remote control may be used. In cases thatrequire a high volume spray capacity, a larger tank and high pressurewater chemical pump may be mounted on the vehicle with water/chemicalsupply lines externally attached to the boom and spray head.

In operation, some disclosed embodiments could be controlled either froma protected operator cab 150 on a transport vehicle (e.g., truck 100) orby a remote control pack 161. A remote control pack 160 could be a“belly pack” and emulate the control capabilities available from withinthe standard operator cab (e.g., operator cab 150). One benefit of aremote control belly pack 161 is that it may allow the operator 160 tobe a safe distance from truck 100 when truck 100 is in operation. Inanother operational disclosed embodiment, it could be preferable (i.e.cost savings, weight, additional safety, etc.) to exclude the need forthe operator cab and operate the controls with the wireless remotecontrol belly pack 161.

Referring now to FIG. 2 , transport vehicle 200 illustrates one possiblealternative carrier for a boom similar to boom 130. Transport vehicle200 comprises a rotational pivot 240 to allow the entire boom assemblyto rotate about an axis perpendicular to its central axis. Operator cab250 may be attached to the base of boom 130 or to the upper portion ofrotational pivot 240 with a self-leveling connection (not shown) atpoint 210. The self-leveling connection may allow an operator insideoperator cab 250 to maintain a level perspective with the horizon evenif transport vehicle 200 is on uneven terrain, thereby aiding theoperator in performing precision tree trimming according to the severaldisclosed embodiments. Operator cab 250 may also act as a counterbalance weight for transport vehicle 200 and an extended boom 130 incertain situations.

Referring now to FIGS. 3A-D aerial tool assembly 300 is typicallyconfigured at the far end of tree trimming apparatus (e.g., aerial toolapparatus 120 from FIG. 1 ). Aerial tool assembly 300 performs theactual cutting and clamping (if required) of the target vegetation.Aerial tool assembly 300 provides for one or more separate independenttool functions. Also, aerial tool apparatus 120 is attached to boom 130via a boom clamp 540 (described with FIG. 5 ). However, any othersuitable aerial tool attachment mechanism may be utilized. Aerial toolassembly 300 is shown in different perspective views in FIGS. 3A-D for asingle example embodiment. Recall that aerial tool assembly 300 is fieldconfigurable, with a variety of tree maintenance accessories, for aparticular tree cutting environment or task. For example, aerial toolassembly 300 may be configured in the field with a plurality ofattachments based on an operator's particular needs to complete a givenwork effort. In this example embodiment, aerial tool assembly 300 isconfigured to have as accessories a limb shear 310 with opposing cuttingblades, and limb clamp (or grapple mechanism) with opposing clampingarms such as limb clamps in the form of opposing clamping arms 320 (or agrapple clamp), and could include, if required, any of several sawingdevices (not shown), such as a chainsaw blade, a single rotary sawblade, or a mechanism with multiple rotary saw blades. As used herein, a“shear” refers to any of various implements or machines that cut with ascissor like action in contrast to cutting by wearing away a material asin sawing. An example of a saw arm attachment 410 containing threerotary saw blades or a chainsaw style blade may be seen in the Figures,and will be described subsequently, but is not shown in FIGS. 3A-D sothat further details of limb shear 310 and opposing clamping arms 320(e.g., limb claims) attachments may be appreciated.

In one embodiment, limb clamp (or grapple mechanism) with opposingclamping arms 320 is configured as a proportional pressure clamp, inpart, because different types of wood have different densities andbreaking thresholds. Furthermore, the size and opening and closingcapacity of the opposing clamping arms may vary depending upon the sizeof material to be cut and handled. Additionally, limb clamp (or grapplemechanism) with opposing clamping arms 320 may be configured withserrated teeth that vary in size and shape to improve grippingcapability as clamping pressures may vary from the throat of the jaws tothe tips of the jaws. When configured with a limb clamp (or grapplemechanism) with opposing clamp arms 320 and a limb shear 310, aerialtool assembly 300 may be used for very precise single limb cutting.Precise control may be required to prevent cutting a plurality of limbsand to prevent the cut portion from falling on objects beneath the pointof cut. In use, an operator 160 may also simply rotate the cut portionto be vertical so that it may be released and more easily fall throughlower vegetation to the ground or placed on the ground or loaded in atruck bed, trailer, tub grinder or chipper. Aerial tool assembly 300also has a plurality of hydraulic hoses 330 independently connected todifferent attachments to allow operator 160 to operate each attachmentand separate independent tool function as required for the task at hand(for clarity not all hoses of FIGS. 3A-D have element numbers).

Referring now to FIG. 4 exploded view 400 illustrates aerial toolassembly 300, saw bar arm 410, and other elements that are typicallyincorporated into certain embodiments of tree trimming apparatus 120.View 400 also shows two axis, represented by dashed lines 425 and 435,which are generally perpendicular to each other and indicate axialrotation capabilities of embodiments of aerial tool apparatus 120. Inthis example, saw bar arm 410 includes a three rotary blade assembly forcutting. Axial connection 420 allows saw bar arm 410 to rotate aroundaxis 425 in a bi-directional continuous circular rotation.Alternatively, to induce movement, the operator may discontinue the sawbar rotation and position the saw arm in a fixed position and use theboom to move the cutter blade(s) thereby cutting the targeted vegetationwith the rotating saw blades. As will be understood, the plane ofrotation of saw bar arm 410 will be generally parallel to the plane ofthe far end section of boom 310 (taking into account any angular changeproduced by actuator arm 510 described below with reference to FIG. 5 ).Also, axial rotator connection 430 allows for bi-directional continuouscircular rotation (around axis 435) of all components connected to thefar side of axial rotator connection 430. As shown, axis 435 isgenerally in line with the far end of the boom 130 (e.g., a boom axis),based on actuator arm 510 adjustment, and allows for a wrist-likerotation capability for portions of aerial tool apparatus 120 in certainembodiments. Each of axial connection 420 and axial rotator connection430 also include a type of swivel assembly which provides independentfluid conductivity between a plurality of ports on either side of theswivel. In use axial rotators allow an operator to rotate an entireattached assembly in excess of 360 degrees in either directioncontinuously relative to its corresponding rotational axis (e.g., 425and 435). Also shown in view 400 is chemical spray manifold 415 locatedon saw bar arm 410.

In this example, chemical spray manifold 415 (more generically, sprayer)comprises one or more applicator heads that may be used to applyherbicide when saw bar arm 410 is in use (or idle). Another chemicalspray head (not shown) could be positioned within aerial tool assembly300 to apply herbicide when limb shear blades 310 are in use. Note thatlimb clamps in the form of opposing clamping arms 320 are fully closedin the embodiments of FIGS. 3A-C. However, as shown in FIG. 4 , limbclamps in the form of opposing clamping arms 320 may also be fullyopened as to be non-intrusive to the work area when not in use. Alsonote that saw bar arm 410 may remain in a fixed position, relative toaerial tool assembly 300 and, while in this configuration, boom 130 maybe moved to bring the aerial tool assembly 300 into position to cut atarget limb. As explained above, saw bar arm 410 may rotate in excess of360 degrees around an axis 425 defined by saw bar arm attachment pointat axial connection 420. Saw bar arm 410 may also be rotated back andparallel to boom 130 when not in use (or removed completely), forexample, to keep saw bar arm 410 from protruding and to increaseprecision for another tool such as limb shear 310.

When cutting limbs of a smaller size, it may not be necessary to use anysawing mechanism on aerial tool assembly 300, and instead cutting may beaccomplished by limb shear 310. For example, an operator couldmanipulate boom 130 and use axial rotation of axial rotators along withactuator arm 510 to align limb shear 310 with a target limb. Theoperator could then use the proportional pressure and variably serratedclamps to grab and hold a portion of the target limb that is to be cutfrom the tree. The shears could then be activated to cut the target limband the cut end would remain in the limb clamps in the form of opposingclamping arms 320 to be lowered to the ground. Any cut limbs could berotated to fall more easily through the underlying foliage or powerlines as discussed earlier. Also, limb shear 310 and the enhanced axialrotation capabilities described allow an operator using the disclosedapparatus to make an “arbor cut” which was difficult or impossible withprior art mechanical solutions. As used herein, an “arbor cut” refers tovarious well recognized tree trimming or pruning techniques as publishedby the International Society of Arborists (ISA) and are generallyperformed manually. For example, when cutting a limb, it may be done atan angle relative to the limb itself rather than making a straightperpendicular cut. Different types of angle cuts could be importantbecause of potential tree care and future growth concerns.

Referring now to FIG. 5 , view 500 illustrates an exploded view ofexample connectors that may be used to link components of aerial toolapparatus 120 to boom 130. In one embodiment, boom connector 540connects to boom 130 using an attachment mechanism (e.g., bonding sleeveinternal to boom to strengthen fiberglass structure) that slides overand bolts to a length at the end of the boom that may have increasedstructural strength. Different types of clamping/attachment mechanismsmay be used for different types of booms and aerial tool configurations.View 500 also shows actuator arm 510 and actuator pivot connection 520.Actuator arm 510 comprises a wand cylinder that actuates approximately90 degrees in either direction. At the far end of actuator arm 510aerial tool assembly mounting bracket 530 is connected. Thus, aerialtool assembly mounting bracket 530 is connected to the boom via pivotconnection 520 and connected to actuator arm 510. The combination of theactuator arm 510 and pivot connection 520 allow an operator to orientthe entire tree trimming apparatus 120 at a particular angle relative tothe far end of the boom. View 500 shows component parts 510, 540, and530 that may be collectively referred to as an “actuator assembly.”

Referring now to FIGS. 6-7 , exploded views 600 and 700 illustraterelative orientation of boom connector 540 to aerial tool assemblymounting bracket 530. Cover plates 610 are typically attached to aerialtool assembly mounting bracket 530 for safety and to keep cut debrisfrom interfering with axial rotator connection 430 and hydraulic hosesnot shown (see element 330 of FIG. 3 ). In this embodiment, axialrotator connection 430 connects partially inside aerial tool assemblymounting bracket 530 and is connected to axial connection 420 and inturn to saw bar arm 410 and aerial tool assembly 300. FIG. 7 illustratesa different perspective view 700 that further illustrates how axialrotator connection 430 connects inside aerial tool assembly mountingbracket 530 and is protected by optional cover plates 610.

Referring now to FIGS. 8A-C, view 800 is shown from three differentvisual perspectives. Each of FIGS. 8A, 8B, and 8C illustrate asubstantially complete configuration of aerial tool apparatus 120incorporating the elements from FIGS. 3-7 . In addition, FIGS. 10A-Balso illustrate a substantially complete aerial tool configuration.Furthermore, a complete aerial tool configuration would be any tool orplurality of tools that is required at any given time that may beattachable and detachable from the configured aerial boom tip supportingend as shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. 7 .

Referring now to FIG. 9 , tank box assembly 900 comprises a tank 910, atank box 920 and a boom attachment 930 for tank box 920. Remote receiver940 may wirelessly receive signals to control output of tank 910. Tankbox 920 further comprises access port 950 and access port cover 955which allow for refilling or adjustment of tank 910 without requiringremoval of tank from tank box 920. Wireless access control of tank 910may reduce or eliminate potential electrical conductivity issuesassociated with tank control operations.

Tank box 920 may be attached to the upper portion of insulated boom 130with a bolted connection. The actual tank mounting connection may be anadjustable tank strap (e.g., 930), bolted foot mount, or bolted siderails (where the tank has feet that slide into the rails and lock downallowing for easy removal). Tank box 920 may be attached underneath theboom or on the outer side of the boom opposite the cutter head andmounted through or alongside the axial rotation connection to a steelsleeve in the inner end of the boom. As shown, tank box 920 may have afill access port 950 where an operator could fill tank 910 withoutremoving it from the boom and may have a drain port off of the dischargeside hose connection to the tank allowing for cleaning or evacuation ofresidual chemical. A shut off valve could be placed just past the drainport to keep fluid from running out through the head when cleaning.

Tank 910 could be driven by a small pump and remote control.Alternatively, Tank 910 could be pre-charged with nitrogen or air(bladder inside tank 910 or sealed plunger inside tank 910) or could bedriven with a hydraulic cylinder. A high pressure discharge hose (e.g.,1110 from FIG. 11 described below) could be connected to tank 910 with aquick connect fitting. Tank 910 would typically be used for low volumechemical applications and be connected to a sprayer head to spraychemicals proximate to aerial tool assembly 300. In other words, asprayer head could be configured to spray on the foliage being cut,aerial tool assembly 300, saw bar arm 410, limb shear 310, etc.Discharge hose 1110 may be connected to a portion of aerial toolassembly 300 or pass through a port on the swivel connection included inone of the axial rotators. Also, tank 910 may be made of high strengthfiberglass (similar to a water softener tank), steel with an internalliner to allow for chemical resistance, or high strength PVC. Ingeneral, any material that will effectively and legally accommodate theinternal chemicals and discharge mechanism and not overly increaseweight on boom 130 could be used. In summary, tank 910 also allows forautomatic precision spraying of low volume chemicals without requiringclose proximity to the operator.

Referring now to FIG. 10A-B, two different perspective views 1000illustrate tank box assembly 900 in conjunction with other elements oftree trimming apparatus 120 in one example embodiment. Supply hose 1010connects through axial rotator connection 430 via a ported swivel so asto not impede rotational capabilities of aerial tool assembly 300.

Referring now to FIG. 11 , a rear portion of a transport vehicle 1100 isshown. Another example of a protected operator cab 1120 is shown. Also,a high volume tank 1110 is shown. High volume tank 1110 may either beindependent of tank 910 or used in conjunction with tank 910. However,when high volume tank 1110 and tank 910 are in fluid connectionelectrical insulation of boom 130 may be lost. Therefore, tanks 910 and1110 may only be used in connection when taking this consideration intoaccount. Obviously, tank 1110 could be used to periodically refill/cleantank 910 or contain liquids unrelated to tank 910.

Also, tanks 910 or 1110 could be used for automated cleaning of sawblades and other cutting apparatus prior to moving to a subsequent tree.For example, a chlorine based cleaning of cutting apparatus may berequired to prevent spreading of diseases amongst trees (e.g., oak wiltdisease). Additionally, other site specific requirements may exist andlocation of tank 910 allows for precision application of sprays or wounddressings. In particular, some materials to be applied are very viscousand it may be desirable to minimize length of supply hose 1110 becauseof difficulty in cleaning the supply hose itself.

Referring now to FIGS. 12A-C, three different perspective views 1200 areshown to illustrate yet another embodiment of tree trimming apparatus120. In this embodiment saw bar arm 410 has been replaced with achainsaw style chainsaw bar arm 1220. Also, trunk clamp (or grapplemechanism) with opposing clamp arms 1230 has been introduced. Trunkclamp (or grapple mechanism) with opposing clamp arms 1230 is generallylarger and stronger than limb clamp (or grapple mechanism) formed fromopposing clamping arms 320. Using this embodiment, an operator couldgrasp a portion of a tree trunk with a trunk clamp (or grapplemechanism) and chainsaw bar arm 1220 under the clamped trunk portion tosever a section of trunk and safely lower the severed trunk portion tothe ground. Thus, entire portions of a tree trunk could be removed fromthe top of the tree to the bottom of the tree. Note, the length anddiameter of each trunk portion (based on the type of wood) could bevaried to take into consideration weight capacity of boom 130. Also, incertain situations, vary large limbs could be removed utilizing trunkclamp (or grapple mechanism) and/or chainsaw bar arm 1220. As is knownto those of ordinary skill in the art, a chainsaw style blade couldcomprise an automatic tensioning capability (not shown), oil lubricationsupply (not shown), and chain saw bar cover shield (not shown).

Referring now to FIGS. 13 and 14 , quick connect/disconnect sealablefluid connections configured to provide power via pressure and flowvolume through a ported axial swivel are shown. View 1300 of FIG. 13shows hydraulic hose fluid input ports 1310 and corresponding quickconnect/disconnect hydraulic hose connection ports 1320 leaving theother side of the axial swivel and allowing for the connection to thecorresponding ports on the saw bar swivel and aerial tool assembly 300,limb clamps in the form of opposing clamping arms 320, and limb shear310 cylinders. Ports 1310 and 1320 may be referred to as “swivel ports”to indicate they are ports on the axial swivel. Hydraulic hoses are notshown so that details of the swivel may be seen.

As explained above, each aerial tool configured accessory attached tothe far side of axial rotator connection 430 may be individually poweredby one or more hydraulic or pneumatic channels through the axial swivel.Axial rotator connection 430 is an example of an axial swivel. View 1400of FIG. 14 shows axial swivel outer casing 1410, a quick connect/disconnect male hose fitting 1420, and a saw bar swivel 1430. Inaccordance with one example, FIG. 14 shows the quick connect/disconnecthose fittings on the axial swivel that will connect via hoses to thecorresponding quick connect/disconnect hose fittings on the saw barswivel. The use of quick connect/disconnect sealable fluid connectionssuch as 1320 allow for quick removal/installation of the various toolconfigurations without fluid loss. Quick connect/disconnect sealabletype couplings are sometimes referred to as “push to connect” couplingsbecause a male and a female adapter are simply pushed together to lockin place. The resulting sealable coupling creates a dependable fluid (orair i.e. pneumatic) connection. To remove a coupling of this type (i.e.,quick disconnect) an outer ring sleeve is typically pulled against aspring and the male/female adaptors may then be separated. Furtherexamples and details of sealable quick connect/disconnect “QD Couplings”H, IH & P Series Snap-Tite product information guide and“Instrumentation Quick Coupling Products” Catalog 4220/USA of April2008, both submitted in an IDS at the time of filing, each of which isincorporated by reference in its entirety.

Additionally, as mentioned above, aerial tool assembly 300 may beconfigured or reconfigured in the field with attachments as opposed tohaving a permanently “fixed” factory configuration. A quickconnect/disconnect type of connection that “clicks” into place may allowan operator to completely replace, modify, add or reduce from or to theaerial tool configurable assembly in a form to be appropriate for agiven application. Several options for field configuration are availablesuch as: attaching and disconnecting saw arm attachment 410 at axialconnection 420; attaching and disconnecting the complete aerial toolassembly 300 at the interface to the axial rotator connection 430;and/or disconnecting the aerial tool assembly including axial rotatorconnection 430 at aerial tool assembly mounting bracket 530. Aerial toolassembly 300 may also be connected or disconnected from axial connection420 (e.g., see FIG. 10A) thereby providing the saw bar assembly asanother possible aerial tool configuration.

Aerial tool assembly 300 may also be connected or disconnected at axialrotator connection 430 or at aerial tool assembly mounting bracket 530.FIG. 12B shows the trunk clamp or grapple mechanism with a plurality ofopposing clamping arms 1230 and chainsaw bar arm 1220 as an aerial toolconfiguration that may be connected or disconnected as a completeassembly from axial rotator connection 430 or at aerial tool assemblymounting bracket 530. Each aerial tool configuration disclosed hereinmay include its own dedicated power connection(s) as further describedas hydraulic, pneumatic, or a non-hydraulic or pneumatic self-containedindependent power source (e.g., electric, electric rechargeable batterypack, engine, or water/chemical pump) or any combination thereofspecific to the desired aerial tool configured assembly(s).

Furthermore, each aerial tool configuration may also be mechanicallyattachable and detachable to and from each other via a bolted, pinned,hinged, latching, coupling, inter locking, keyed or any other suitablemechanical connection device for the attaching and detaching of acomplete one or more aerial tool configured boom assembly. For example,FIG. 3A shows aerial tool assembly 300 configured as a limb shear 310with a plurality limb clamps in the form of opposing clamping arms 320with a plurality of opposing clamping arms both being attachable anddetachable from each other or attached and detached as a combinedassembly. The Quick connect/disconnect type sealable hydraulic orpneumatic connections may also allow for ease of complete or partialreplacement, reconfiguration, maintenance and or storage or transportingof attachable and detachable tool components or complete configuredaerial tool assemblies (such as aerial tool assembly 300).

In another example, the entire aerial tool assembly 300 may bedisconnected and replaced with other assemblies to alter capabilities ofthe specially designed boom 130. Recall that boom 130 has load bearingquick connect/disconnect multi-port swivels at each of axial rotatorconnection 430 and axial connection 420. Load bearing multi-port quickconnect/disconnect swivels that allow axial rotation in severaldifferent planes and allow for independent fluid pass through are notutilized in prior art aerial tree trimming applications. Furthermore,disclosed connections at the far end of the boom may allow a flexibletype of apparatus that could transform in the field from a hydraulic orpneumatic powered aerial tool configuration to an aerial toolconfiguration that has a dedicated independent power pack. As mentionedabove, the entire aerial tool assembly 300 including axial rotatorconnection 430 may be disconnected at aerial tool assembly mountingbracket 530 and replaced by an aerial tool configuration with anindependent power pack.

Referring now to FIGS. 15A-C, view 1500A illustrates an aerial toolconfiguration for a self-contained power supply 1510 and multi-circularsaw blades 1520. The aerial tool configuration of this example includesan attachment mechanism to connect at aerial tool assembly mountingbracket 530 and may include an anti-sway pole 1525, according to one ormore disclosed embodiments. As illustrated, in this exampleconfiguration anti-sway pole 1525 may be an aluminum pole with a distalend connecting an alternative self-contained engine driven orrechargeable battery pack power supply 1510. Additionally, there isillustrated a connected saw bar comprising multi-circular saw blades1520. The connection at aerial tool assembly mounting bracket 530 allowsthe actuator arm 510 to actuate the aerial tool configurationapproximately 90 degrees in either direction to provide a pivot action.Additional views from different angles are shown as view 1500B and view1500C.

Power supply 1510 may include a wireless remote receiver (not shown).For example, a wireless remote receiver may be provided to receivesignals from a remote wireless remote control belly pack 161 to activatepower supply 1510 for engaging and disengaging power to multi-circularsaw blades 1520. This aerial tool configuration could also be used tomodify existing tree trimmer bucket trucks by removing the existingbuckets and attaching the self-contained mechanized aerial toolconfiguration to the original or modified bucket attachment at the endof the aerial boom. Thereby increasing the speed of cutting andimproving safety by removing the man from the bucket. Truck and boomcontrols may be interfaced via the wireless remote-control receiver. Theabove referenced configuration may include a rotator/actuator 1505(e.g., to pivot around pivot connection 520 discussed above) to rotatethe aerial tool configuration in a plane parallel to the boom forstorage or the aerial tool may be disconnected and stored in a toolcarrier on the vehicle or other suitable tool storage location.

Referring now to FIGS. 16A-C, view 1600A introduces an unmanned vehicle1605 and aerial boom 1619 configuration that is operated by a wirelessremote control belly pack 161. The aerial tool assembly 300, in thisexample, includes an attachable and detachable single circular saw bladeand motor 1615 attached to an axial rotator connection (e.g., an axialrotator connection 430 as previously discussed). Views 1600B and 1600Cillustrate different perspective angles. Note in view 1600C singularcircular saw blade and motor 1615 is illustrated as detached from itsconnection point.

Referring now to FIGS. 17A-C, aerial tool assembly 300 is illustrated inview 1700A to include an attachable and detachable industrial demolitionshear with opposing cutting blades 1710, interchangeable jaws and anattachable and detachable grapple with opposing clamping arms 1705 maybe further used for different configurations of aerial tool assembly300. Note that clamping arms 1705 are illustrated without gripping teethin this example, in part, because cutting soft metals (e.g., aluminum)may require a clamp that will not bite into the metal. For example, ifdemolishing an airplane, it may not be desirable for cut portions tostick to teeth of a clamping mechanism. View 1700A and view 1700Billustrated different perspective angles.

Referring now to FIG. 18 , view 1800 illustrates that aerial toolassembly 300 may have been disconnected and removed at aerial toolassembly mounting bracket 530 and replaced with another aerial toolconfiguration (e.g., different configuration of attachments for anaerial tool configuration different than aerial tool assembly 300). Toalter the capabilities of the apparatus as previously discussed andincorporate one or more water/chemical blasting rotating or non-rotatingspray head(s) 1805. Each spray head 1805 may have one or more spraynozzles. Spray head 1805 may be powered by one or more independentwater/chemical pump(s) and one or more quick connect/disconnect sealablesupply hose(s) and/or line(s) couplings. A water/chemical blasting sprayhead may be further controlled by water/chemical flow and pressure via awater/chemical supply line attached to a water/chemical pump (not shown)and water/chemical supply tank 1810 (that may be similar to supply tank1110 discussed previously). This example configuration may allow theoperator to de-ice power lines aircraft, etc., clean or decontaminateequipment, components, pipe, rig equipment, storage and refiningfacilities, etc. Furthermore, if large volumes of water are required fora particular application supply tank 1810 may not be needed and a highvolume water hose or line may be connected at the water pump intake toboost pressure.

In the foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, numerousspecific details were set forth in order to provide a thoroughunderstanding of the inventive concept. As part of this description,some structures and devices may be shown in block diagram form in orderto avoid obscuring the invention. Moreover, the language used in thisdisclosure has been principally selected for readability andinstructional purposes and may not have been selected to delineate orcircumscribe the inventive subject matter, resort to the claims beingnecessary to determine such inventive subject matter. Reference in thespecification to “one embodiment” or to “an embodiment” means that aparticular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connectionwith the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of theinvention, and multiple references to “one embodiment” or “anembodiment” should not be understood as necessarily all referring to thesame embodiment.

It will be appreciated that in the development of any actualimplementation (as in any development project), numerous decisions maybe made to achieve the designers' specific goals (e.g., compliance withsystem- and business-related constraints), and that these goals willvary from one implementation to another. It will also be appreciatedthat such development efforts might be complex and time-consuming butwould nevertheless be a routine undertaking for those of ordinary skillin any field requiring design and implementation of boom mounted aerialtool apparatus having the benefit of this disclosure.

Various changes in the details of the illustrated operational methodsand mechanical apparatuses are possible without departing from the scopeof the following claims. For instance, illustrative embodiments of anaerial tool and boom actuator attachment assembly configuration (e.g.,FIGS. 2-4 ) may be configured differently based on different aerial toolrequirements and operating conditions. Alternatively, some embodimentsmay combine the configurations of multiple assemblies described hereinas being separate options. Similarly, one or more of the describedoptions may be omitted, depending upon the specific operationalenvironment in which the device is being used.

The above disclosed apparatus may support various implementations andmethod for performing aerial commercial tasks. The following paragraphslist some example capabilities and methods that may be realized based onthe above disclosure.

An aerial tool apparatus comprising: a transport vehicle; an aerial boomcomprising one or more sections, having a boom axis, and attached at aproximate end of the aerial boom to the transport vehicle; an attachableand detachable aerial tool configured assembly comprising one or moretools as one or more configured attachments, a plurality of accessoryports, the plurality of accessory ports each associated with one or morequick connect disconnect sealable hose couplings; an actuator assemblyconnecting the attachable and detachable aerial tool configured assemblyto a distal end of a most distal portion of the aerial boom therebyforming an aerial boom assembly, the aerial boom assembly furthercomprising an axial rotator for turning the aerial tool configured boomassembly in a plane perpendicular to the boom axis, the axial rotatorcomprising a rotating swivel, the rotating swivel further comprising aplurality of swivel ports, one or more of the plurality of swivel portsproviding hydraulic or pneumatic power to at least one aerial toolaccessory attached via the one or more quick connect/disconnect sealablehose couplings, the actuator assembly further comprising one or moreactuators configured to orient the attachable and detachable aerial toolconfigured boom assembly relative to the most distal portion of theaerial boom; and one or more powered aerial tool accessories connectedto the attachable and detachable aerial tool configured assembly and tothe quick connect/disconnect sealable hose couplings. The disclosedexamples may be implemented wherein the one or more powered aerial toolaccessories are controlled by pressure and flow rates as supplied by oneor more hydraulic fluid channels thru the axial swivel and rotator viathe quick connect/disconnect sealable hose couplings. The disclosedexamples may be implemented wherein the one or more powered aerial toolaccessories are separately attachable and detachable from the aerialtool configured assembly. The disclosed examples may be implementedwherein the aerial boom assembly is attachable and detachable from theboom attachment mechanism. The disclosed examples may be implementedwherein the quick connect/disconnect aerial tool configured assembly iscapable of performing one or more independent tool applicationfunctions.

The disclosed examples may be implemented wherein there are at least twopowered aerial tool configured accessories, the at least two poweredaerial tool configured accessories comprising a trunk clamp/grapplemechanism with opposing clamping arms and a second rotator and chainsaw. The disclosed examples may be implemented wherein the actuatorassembly further comprises a second rotator configured to rotate the atleast one aerial tool accessory in a plane parallel to the boom axis asadjusted by the actuator arm. The disclosed examples may be implementedwherein the one or more powered aerial tool configured assembly powerconfigurations is selected from the power group consisting of:hydraulic, pneumatic or a non-hydraulic or pneumatic self-containedindependent power source (e.g., electric, electric rechargeable batterypack, engine, or water/chemical pump) or any combination thereofspecific to the desired aerial tool configured assembly.

The disclosed examples may be implemented further comprising aconfiguration of hydraulic hoses, wherein the configuration of hydraulichoses is selected from the group consisting of: hoses configuredinternal to the aerial boom, hoses configured external to the aerialboom, and hoses configured as a combination of internal and external tothe aerial boom, and combination of hoses and hard lines external to theaerial boom. The disclosed examples may be implemented wherein there isa least one powered aerial tool configured accessory comprising a singlecircular saw blade with motor and rotator. The disclosed examples may beimplemented wherein each aerial tool configuration is mechanicallyattachable and detachable to and from each other via a bolted, pinned,hinged, latching, coupling, inter-locking, keyed or any other suitablemechanical connection device for the attaching and detaching of acomplete one or more independently controlled aerial tool configuredboom assembly. The disclosed examples may be implemented wherein thereare at least one or more powered aerial tool configured accessories, theat least one or more powered aerial tool configured accessoriescomprising a limb shear with opposing cutting blades and limbclamp/grapple mechanism with opposing clamping arms. The disclosedexamples may be implemented comprising an unmanned vehicle driven andoperated by a wireless remote-control.

The disclosed examples may be implemented wherein the at least oneindependent powered aerial tool configured accessory comprising awireless remote start and stop engine driven aerial tool accessoryfurther comprising boom connecting actuators, connecting rod (pole),engine connected to a saw bar comprising one or more circular saw bladesand controlled via operator cab or wireless remote control. Thedisclosed examples may be implemented wherein the at least one poweredaerial tool configured accessory comprising a grapple mechanism withopposing clamping arms. The disclosed examples may be implementedwherein the at least one powered aerial tool configured accessorycomprising a second rotator and saw bar arm comprising one or morecircular saw blades. The disclosed examples may be implemented asoperated by a wireless remote control. The disclosed examples may beimplemented wherein the aerial boom includes a boom over-load sensingdevice. The disclosed examples may be implemented wherein the aerialboom includes an aerial boom camera. The disclosed examples may beimplemented wherein the vehicle includes at least one or a combinationof level sensing, vehicle GPS logging, mapping and tracking softwaredevices. The disclosed examples may be implemented wherein the aerialtool configured accessory includes at least one or more rotationaland/or mechanical actuators. The disclosed examples may be implementedwherein the aerial tool configured accessory includes at least one ormore ported axial swivels with one or more connection ports. Thedisclosed examples may be implemented wherein the configured transportvehicle is selected from the group consisting of: a truck, trailer,truck or any mobile platform with rail road wheels or high rails, offroad wheeled or track carrier, wheeled or track crawler, tractor,wheeled or track telehandler, wheeled or track crane, amphibiouscarrier, or any other suitable manned or unmanned mobile carrier tosupport and operate the aerial tool apparatus.

The disclosed examples may be implemented wherein the configured aerialboom may be constructed of fiberglass, steel, or any other suitablematerial or combination thereof and is further selected from the groupconsisting of: telescoping with one or more movable sections,multi-section over center knuckle, non over-center knuckle, or acombination knuckle and telescoping boom or any other suitable boom tosupport and operate the aerial tool apparatus for its intended purpose.The disclosed examples may be implemented as a method for using theabove described apparatus for trimming trees, the method utilizing thecapabilities identified in this disclosure based on identification of awork task; configuration of the apparatus to perform the work task; andperforming the work task (e.g., cutting a limb using a clampingmechanism to prevent falling of the cut section).

An aerial tool apparatus comprising: a transport vehicle; an aerial boomcomprising one or more sections, having a boom axis, and attached at aproximate end of the aerial boom to the transport vehicle; an attachableand detachable aerial tool configured assembly comprising one or moretools as one or more configured attachments, a plurality of accessoryports, the plurality of accessory ports each associated with one or morequick connect disconnect sealable hose couplings; an actuator assemblyconnecting the attachable and detachable aerial tool configured assemblyto a distal end of a most distal portion of the aerial boom therebyforming an aerial boom assembly, the aerial boom assembly furthercomprising an axial rotator for turning the aerial tool configured boomassembly in a plane perpendicular to the boom axis, the axial rotatorcomprising a rotating swivel, the rotating swivel further comprising aplurality of swivel ports, one or more of the plurality of swivel portsproviding hydraulic or pneumatic power to at least one aerial toolaccessory attached via the one or more quick connect/disconnect sealablehose couplings, the actuator assembly further comprising one or moreactuators configured to orient the attachable and detachable aerial toolconfigured boom assembly relative to the most distal portion of theaerial boom; and one or more powered aerial tool accessories connectedto the attachable and detachable aerial tool configured assembly and tothe quick connect/disconnect sealable hose couplings.

The disclosed examples may be implemented wherein the one or morepowered aerial tool accessories are controlled by pressure and flowrates as supplied by one or more hydraulic fluid channels thru the axialswivel and rotator via the quick connect/disconnect sealable hosecouplings. The disclosed examples may be implemented wherein the one ormore powered aerial tool accessories are separately attachable anddetachable from the aerial tool configured assembly. The disclosedexamples may be implemented wherein the aerial boom assembly isattachable and detachable from the actuator assembly. The disclosedexamples may be implemented wherein the quick connect/disconnect aerialtool configured assembly is capable of performing one or moreindependent tool application functions.

The disclosed examples may be implemented wherein there are at least oneor more powered tool accessories, the at least one or more poweredaerial tool configured accessories comprising a demolition shear withopposing cutting blades and a grapple mechanism with opposing clampingarms. The disclosed examples may be implemented wherein the actuatorassembly further comprises a second rotator configured to rotate the atleast one aerial tool accessory in a plane parallel to the boom axis asadjusted by the actuator arm.

The disclosed examples may be implemented wherein the at least oneindependent powered aerial tool configured accessory comprising one ormore water/chemical blasting rotating or non-rotating spray head(s),with one or more spray nozzles, powered by one or more independentwater/chemical pump(s) and one or more quick connect/disconnect sealablesupply hose(s) and/or lines(s) couplings.

1-20. (canceled)
 21. An aerial tool apparatus, comprising: aconfigurable aerial tool assembly, including: an attachable/detachabletool accessory; and means for rotating the tool accessory around afirst, inline axis, or a second, transverse axis, or a combinationthereof; an aerial tool assembly mounting bracket operably coupled toand mechanically engaging the aerial tool assembly, the aerial toolassembly being attachable and detachable to and from the mountingbracket; and a boom connector having a first end and a second end, theboom connector pivotably engaging the aerial tool assembly mountingbracket at the first end thereof and adapted at the second end thereofto be mounted to an aerially extending boom.
 22. The aerial toolapparatus of claim 21, wherein: the means for rotation includes: anaxial rotator connection providing rotation about the inline axis; andan axial connection providing rotation about the transverse axis; andthe tool accessory includes: a saw bar arm rotated by the axialconnection; a plurality of circular saw blades mounted to the saw bararm; and a drive for the circular saw blades.
 23. The aerial toolapparatus of claim 22, wherein the tool accessory further includes aspray head.
 24. The aerial tool apparatus of claim 21, wherein: themeans for rotation includes an axial rotator connection providingrotation about the inline axis; and the tool accessory includes: acircular saw; and a drive for the circular saw.
 25. The aerial toolapparatus of claim 21, wherein: the means for rotation includes: anaxial rotator connection providing rotation about the inline axis; andan axial connection providing rotation about the transverse axis; andthe tool accessory includes: a multi-circular saw blades; and a drivefor the multi-circular saw blades.
 26. The aerial tool apparatus ofclaim 21, wherein the tool accessory includes a saw.
 27. The aerial toolapparatus of claim 26, wherein the saw is a chainsaw, or a rotary saw,or a circular saw, or a plurality of multi-circular saw blades, or somecombination thereof.
 28. The aerial tool apparatus of claim 26, whereinthe aerial tool assembly further includes a clamp, or a high-pressureliquid spraying apparatus, or a blasting spray head, or a limb shear, ora plurality of cutter blades, or a cutter head, or a combinationthereof.
 29. The aerial tool apparatus of claim 21, wherein the toolaccessory is a clamp, or a high-pressure liquid spraying apparatus, or ablasting spray head, or a limb shear, or a plurality of cutter blades,or a cutter head, or a combination thereof.
 30. The aerial toolapparatus of claim 21, further comprising a second tool accessoryindependently operable relative to the first tool assembly.
 31. Theaerial tool apparatus of claim 21, wherein: the aerial tool assembly ishydraulically driven; and the aerial tool assembly further includes aswivel having a plurality of quick connect/disconnect hose fittings. 32.The aerial tool apparatus of claim 21, wherein the aerial tool assemblyis electrically powered, pneumatically powered, hydraulically powered,or some combination thereof.
 33. The aerial tool apparatus of claim 21,wherein the aerial tool assembly includes a wireless remote receiver tobe controlled remotely from the ground.
 34. An aerial tool system,comprising: a mobile carrier chassis; an aerially extending boom havinga first end and a second end, the aerially extending boom being movablymounted to the mobile carrier chassis at the first end thereof; and anaerial tool apparatus mounted to the second end of the aeriallyextending boom, the aerial tool apparatus including: a configurableaerial tool assembly, including: an attachable/detachable toolaccessory; and means for rotating the tool accessory around a first,inline axis, or a second, transverse axis, or a combination thereof; anaerial tool assembly mounting bracket operably coupled to andmechanically engaging the aerial tool assembly, the aerial tool assemblybeing attachable and detachable to and from the mounting bracket; and aboom connector having a first end and a second end, the boom connectorpivotably engaging the aerial tool assembly mounting bracket at thefirst end thereof and adapted at the second end thereof to be mounted toan aerially extending boom.
 35. The aerial tool system of claim 34,wherein the mobile carrier chassis comprises a truck, trailer, a truckor a mobile platform with railroad wheels or high rails, an off roadwheeled or a tracked carrier, a wheeled or track crawler, a tractor, awheeled or track telehandler, a wheeled or tracked crane, or anamphibious carrier.
 36. The aerial tool system of claim 34, wherein: themeans for rotation includes: an axial rotator connection providingrotation about the inline axis; and an axial connection providingrotation about the transverse axis; and the tool accessory includes: asaw bar arm rotated by the axial connection; a plurality of circular sawblades mounted to the saw bar arm; and a drive for the circular sawblades.
 37. The aerial tool system of claim 36, wherein the toolaccessory further includes a spray head.
 38. The aerial tool system ofclaim 34, wherein: the means for rotation includes an axial rotatorconnection providing rotation about the inline axis; and the toolaccessory includes: a circular saw; and a drive for the circular saw.39. The aerial tool system of claim 34, wherein: the means for rotationincludes; an axial rotator connection providing rotation about theinline axis; and an axial connection providing rotation about thetransverse axis; and the tool accessory includes: a plurality ofmulti-circular saw blades; and a drive for the multi-circular sawblades.
 40. The aerial tool system of claim 34, wherein the toolaccessory includes a saw.
 41. The aerial tool system of claim 40,wherein the saw is a chainsaw, or a rotary saw, or a circular saw, or aplurality of multi-circular saw blades, or some combination thereof. 42.The aerial tool system of claim 40, wherein the aerial tool assemblyfurther includes a clamp, or a high-pressure liquid spraying apparatus,or a blasting spray head, or a limb shear, or a plurality of cutterblades, or a cutter head, or a combination thereof.
 43. The aerial toolsystem of claim 34, further comprising a second tool accessoryindependently operable relative to the first tool assembly.
 44. Theaerial tool system of claim 34, wherein: the aerial tool assembly ishydraulically driven; and the aerial tool assembly further includes aswivel having a plurality of quick connect/disconnect hose fittings. 45.The aerial tool apparatus of claim 34, wherein the aerial tool assemblyis electrically powered, pneumatically powered, hydraulically powered,or some combination thereof.
 46. The aerial tool system of claim 34,further comprising a remote control, and wherein the aerial toolassembly includes a wireless remote receiver to be controlled remotelyfrom the ground using the remote control.
 47. A method, comprising:disconnecting a bucket from a distal end of an aerially extending boommovably mounted to a mobile carrier chassis; attaching an aerial toolapparatus to the distal end of the aerially extending boom, the aerialtool apparatus including: a configurable aerial tool assembly; an aerialtool assembly mounting bracket operably coupled to and mechanicallyengaging the aerial tool assembly, the aerial tool assembly beingattachable and detachable to and from the mounting bracket; and a boomconnector having a first end and a second end, the boom connectorpivotably engaging the aerial tool assembly mounting bracket at thefirst end thereof and adapted at the second end thereof to be mounted toan aerially extending boom. extending the aerially extending boom andthe attached aerial tool apparatus to a location relative to at least aportion of an object to be worked upon; and working upon the objectusing the aerial tool assembly.
 48. The method of claim 47, furthercomprising configuring the aerial tool apparatus, including: detachingthe tool accessory from the aerial tool assembly; and attaching a secondtool accessory to the aerial tool assembly.
 49. The method of claim 47,wherein the aerial tool assembly includes: an attachable/detachable toolaccessory; and means for rotating the tool accessory around a first,inline axis, or a second, transverse axis, or a combination thereof. 50.The method of claim 47, further comprising remotely controlling anactuation of the configurable aerial tool assembly.
 51. The method ofclaim 50, further comprising remotely controlling the positioning of theconfigurable aerial tool assembly.
 52. The method of claim 51, whereinremotely controlling the positioning of the configurable aerial toolassembly includes remotely controlling the extending of the aeriallyextending boom.
 53. The method of claim 47, wherein the aerial toolassembly includes a tool accessory fixed relative to the aerial toolassembly.
 54. The method of claim 47, wherein the aerial tool assemblyincludes a tool accessory rotatable relative to the aerial toolassembly.
 55. A method, comprising: attaching an aerial tool apparatusto a distal end of an aerially extending boom, the aerially extendingboom being movably mounted to a mobile carrier chassis and the aerialtool apparatus including a configurable aerial tool assembly, theconfigurable aerial tool assembly including an attachable/detachabletool accessory; extending the aerially extending boom and the attachedaerial tool apparatus to a location relative to at least a portion of anobject to be worked upon; working upon the object using the aerial toolassembly; and remotely controlling the extending of the aeriallyextending boom and the working upon the object.
 56. The method of claim55, further comprising disconnecting a bucket from a distal end of theaerially extending boom before attaching the aerial tool apparatus. 57.The method of claim 55, wherein remotely controlling the extending ofthe aerially extending boom and the working upon the object includesremotely controlling an actuation of the attachable/detachable toolaccessory.
 58. The method of claim 55, wherein the configurable aerialtool assembly includes a second tool accessory independently operablerelative to the first tool accessory.
 59. The method of claim 58,wherein remotely controlling the extending of the aerially extendingboom and the working upon the object includes remotely and independentlyactuating and operating the first tool accessory and the second toolaccessory.
 60. The method of claim 55, wherein the tool accessory isfixed relative to the aerial tool assembly.
 61. The method of claim 55,wherein the tool accessory is rotatable relative to the aerial toolassembly.
 62. An aerial tool system, comprising: a mobile carrierchassis; an aerially extending boom having a first end and a second end,the aerially extending boom being movably mounted to the mobile carrierchassis at the first end thereof; and an aerial tool apparatus mountedto the second end of the aerially extending boom, the aerial toolapparatus including a configurable aerial tool assembly, the aerial toolassembly including an attachable/detachable tool accessory; and a remotecontrol remotely controlling the operation and actuation of the aeriallyextending boom and the aerial tool apparatus, including theattachable/detachable tool accessory.
 63. The aerial tool system ofclaim 62, wherein the mobile carrier chassis comprises a truck, trailer,a truck or a mobile platform with railroad wheels or high rails, an offroad wheeled or a tracked carrier, a wheeled or track crawler, atractor, a wheeled or track telehandler, a wheeled or tracked crane, oran amphibious carrier.
 64. The aerial tool system of claim 62, whereinthe configurable aerial tool assembly includes a secondattachable/detachable tool accessory independently operable relative tothe first tool accessory.
 65. The aerial tool system of claim 64,wherein the remote control further controls the operation and actuationof the second tool accessory independently of the first tool accessory.66. The aerial tool system of claim
 64. wherein the tool accessory isfixed relative to the aerial tool assembly.
 67. The aerial tool systemof claim 64, wherein the tool accessory is rotatable relative to theaerial tool assembly.
 68. An aerial tool apparatus comprising: atransport vehicle; an aerial boom including a proximate end attached tothe transport vehicle and a distal end to extend aerially relative tothe transport vehicle, the aerial boom comprising: one or more sectionsand having at least two axes relative to a most distal section of theone or more sections, the at least two axes including a planar axisassociated with a plane parallel to the aerial boom and a perpendicularaxis perpendicular to the planar axis; an aerial tool assemblycomprising: a plurality of attachment points to accept one or moreaerial tool accessories, each of the one or more aerial tool accessoriesrepresenting a field configurable tool for the aerial tool apparatus,wherein the aerial tool assembly accepts attachment and detachment ofone or more aerial tools as configuration accessories to form aconfigured aerial tool assembly; an actuator assembly comprising: afirst connection attaching the aerial tool assembly at the distal end;and one or more actuators to orient the configured aerial tool assemblyrelative to the perpendicular axis; and a first axial rotatorcomprising: a second connection to connect the aerial tool assembly tothe actuator assembly, the first axial rotator configured to rotate theaerial tool assembly within a plane parallel to the perpendicular axis;and a first rotating swivel having a plurality of swivel ports, one ormore of the plurality of swivel ports to provide hydraulic or pneumaticpower to a first accessory of the one or more aerial tool accessories,via a respective one of the plurality of swivel ports, wherein theplurality of the one or more aerial tool accessories: each, includingthe first accessory, has at least one hose connection to a respectiveone of one or more quick connect/disconnect hose couplings to receivepower through one of the plurality of swivel ports the plurality of theone or more aerial tool accessories are controlled by pressure and flowrates supplied by one or more hydraulic fluid channels through the atleast one hose connection, and the pressure and flow rates arecontrolled independently for different ones of the plurality of the oneor more aerial tool accessories.
 69. The method of claim 68, wherein theone or more aerial tool accessories include an electrically poweredaerial tool accessory.
 70. A method of operating an aerial toolapparatus for water/chemical blasting/spraying, cleaning,decontamination, de-icing and cutting, the method comprising:identifying at least a portion of one or more objects to be acted uponby spraying, cleaning, de-icing, or cutting using a liquid; positioninga transport vehicle proximate to the one or more objects, the transportvehicle comprising: an aerial boom including a proximate end attached tothe transport vehicle and a distal end to extend aerially relative tothe transport vehicle, the aerial boom comprising: one or more sectionsand having at least two axes relative to a most distal section of theone or more sections, the at least two axes including a planar axisassociated with a plane parallel to the aerial boom and a perpendicularaxis perpendicular to the planar axis; an aerial tool assemblycomprising: a plurality of attachment points to accept one or moreaerial tool accessories, each of the one or more aerial tool accessoriesrepresenting a field configurable tool for the aerial tool apparatus,wherein the aerial tool assembly accepts attachment and detachment ofone or more aerial tools as configuration accessories to form aconfigured aerial tool assembly; an actuator assembly comprising: afirst connection attaching the aerial tool assembly at the distal end;and one or more actuators to orient the configured aerial tool assemblyrelative to the perpendicular axis; and a first axial rotatorcomprising: a second connection to connect the aerial tool assembly tothe actuator assembly, the first axial rotator configured to rotate theaerial tool assembly within a plane parallel to the perpendicular axis;and a first rotating swivel having a plurality of swivel ports, one ormore of the plurality of swivel ports to provide hydraulic or pneumaticpower to a first accessory of the one or more aerial tool accessories,via a respective one of the plurality of swivel ports; extending theaerial boom to a location relative to the portion; and activating atleast a part of the aerial tool assembly to effectuate expulsion of theliquid.
 71. The method of claim 70, wherein the one or more aerial toolaccessories include an electrically-powered aerial tool accessory. 72.The method of claim 70, wherein positioning the transport vehiclecomprises positioning the transport vehicle proximate to an airplane tobe de-iced.
 73. The method of claim 70, wherein positioning thetransport vehicle comprises positioning the transport vehicle proximateto a structure to be cleaned.
 74. The method of claim 70, whereinpositioning the transport vehicle comprises positioning the transportvehicle proximate to foliage to be treated.
 75. The method of claim 70,wherein activating the at least a portion of the aerial tool assembly isperformed by remote control.
 76. The method of claim 70, wherein theportion of one or more objects to be acted upon includes foliage and theliquid includes a botanical treatment liquid.
 77. The method of claim70, wherein the portion of one or more objects to be acted upon includesan airplane and the liquid includes a de-icing solution.
 78. The methodof claim 70, wherein the portion of one or more objects to be acted uponincludes a structure and the liquid includes a cleaning solution.
 79. Anaerial tool apparatus, comprising: a configurable aerial tool assembly,including an attachable/detachable tool accessory; an aerial toolassembly mounting bracket operably coupled to and mechanically engagingthe aerial tool assembly, the aerial tool assembly being attachable anddetachable to and from the mounting bracket; and a boom connector havinga first end and a second end, the boom connector pivotably engaging theaerial tool assembly mounting bracket at the first end thereof andadapted at the second end thereof to be mounted to an aerially extendingboom.
 80. The aerial tool apparatus of claim 79, further comprisingmeans for rotating the tool accessory around a first, inline axis, or asecond, transverse axis, or a combination thereof; and wherein the toolaccessory includes: a saw; and a drive for the saw.
 81. The aerial toolapparatus of claim 80, wherein the means for rotation includes: an axialrotator connection providing rotation about the inline axis; and anaxial connection providing rotation about the transverse axis.
 82. Theaerial tool apparatus of claim 80, wherein the saw is a chainsaw, or arotary saw, or a circular saw, or a plurality of multi-circular sawblades, or some combination thereof.
 83. The aerial tool apparatus ofclaim 79, wherein the aerial tool assembly is electrically powered,pneumatically powered, hydraulically powered, or some combinationthereof.
 84. The aerial tool apparatus of claim 79, wherein the aerialtool assembly includes a wireless remote receiver to be controlledremotely from the ground.
 85. The aerial tool apparatus of claim 79,wherein: the tool accessory is fixed relative to the aerial toolassembly; and the tool accessory includes: a saw; and a drive for thesaw.
 86. The aerial tool apparatus of claim 85, wherein the saw is achainsaw, or a rotary saw, or a circular saw, or a plurality ofmulti-circular saw blades, or some combination thereof.